Soros’ Funding of Parole Bills Raises Concerns
Billionaire George Soros has invested over $7 million into organizations advocating for parole reform in Albany. This has sparked fears among critics that it could facilitate the premature release of infamous criminals, including David Berkowitz, known as the “Son of Sam.”
Since 2016, Soros’ network has contributed at least $7.1 million to eight out of fifteen groups described as “grassroots coalitions,” according to records from the Open Society Foundation. These funds are part of a campaign promoting the movement toward what they call “incarceration and family reunification,” pressing for legislative changes. Two key proposals, the Fair and Timely Parole and Elderly Parole Act, aim to reshape parole eligibility.
While Soros’ network hasn’t directly funded these specific campaigns, its financial backing has bolstered several foundational organizations. This includes a significant $3.2 million to FWD.us, established by tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, which focuses on criminal justice reforms. Interestingly, Zuckerberg reportedly withdrew his financial support last year, aligning with a more conservative stance.
Other groups that received support include VOCAL New York ($1.7 million), the Legal Aid Society ($1.6 million), and several others focused on advocating for convicted individuals. Over the past decade, Soros has funneled over $40 million into campaigns for progressive district attorney candidates nationwide, encouraging policies aimed at reducing incarceration rates.
Critics, including Douglas Kellogg from Americans for Tax Reform, argue that this initiative reflects a misguided approach to public safety. “If New Yorkers, who already bear the highest taxes in the nation, can’t count on incarceration for violent offenders, they’re being wronged,” he said.
A spokesperson for Soros dismissed these critiques, labeling them as sensationalism rather than journalism. They chose not to respond directly to concerns that his influence might allow dangerous individuals like Berkowitz to evade justice.
Berkowitz, now 72, has been in prison since 1977. His crimes and multiple denied parole requests are central to the discussion surrounding the Elderly Parole Act, which aims to permit parole for violent offenders after they reach a certain age. Similarly, the Fair and Timely Parole Act could enable parole boards to release inmates unless they are viewed as an immediate threat, regardless of their violent history.
Both proposals previously faltered in the legislature but now have enough backing in the Senate to potentially pass, though they face hurdles in Congress. Governor Kathy Hochul’s stance on whether she would veto these bills remains unclear as she seeks support from liberal voters in New York City.
Advocates for these bills argue that a significant number of New Yorkers are serving excessively long sentences, citing the need for reform. They attribute the current laws to systemic issues, including bias. However, many individuals express concern that these reforms may benefit dangerous criminals instead.
One such voice is Jason Savino, whose mother was a victim of Berkowitz’ crime spree. He expressed distrust in Soros’ intentions, questioning how the wealth and influence of someone like Soros could relate to the struggles faced by ordinary people impacted by crime.
Wendy Savino, who survived Berkowitz’ attack, echoed these fears, sharing her distress over the possibility that he might roam free again. She, along with others, worries that introducing these parole reforms may permit the return of individuals who committed heinous acts, such as Berkowitz or even Mark David Chapman, John Lennon’s assassin.
In summary, the interplay of financial influence, public safety concerns, and potential legislative changes creates a complex narrative. Many believe that the voices most affected by crime are being overshadowed by those who have never experienced its direct consequences.
